Is it possible for an athiest to gain eternal salvation?

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Just wondering that if it possible for an athiest to be totally ignorant of God through no fault of his own and gain eternal salvation even if he still doesn't acknowledge Him on his deathbed? Personally, I always thought that God put it in man's heart to seek Him out to the best of their abilities aided by His Graces so if they refused to believe in Him all of their lives, then they would have commited the "Unforgivable Sin" and loose their eternal soul forever.

-- D Joseph (newfiedufie@msn.com), May 29, 2004

Answers

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-- D Joseph (newfiedufie@msn.com), May 29, 2004.

D Joseph,

The question you are asking relates to the Catholic doctrine of Invincible Ignorance. As the Catechism explains it in the link I provided, salvation is possible if the person did not turn to God through no fault of their own. However, resisting God's leading is a sin. I would say that since St. Paul tells us in Romans that the law is written on our hearts, everyone knows some level of right and wrong. I think the person would probably have had to at least follow what they know is right, ie. follow God to the best that they know how. God will judge their hearts, so we can't really say for sure about anyone.

God bless,

-- Emily ("jesusfollower7@yahoo.com), May 30, 2004.


Thats why we should keep praying for "Laurent LUG". He left the Catholic Church to become a atheist. He won't be able to hide behind Invisable ignorance on judgement day.

May Gods Grace bring LUG back home.

-- - (David@excite.com), May 30, 2004.


David , I'm really not returning , I live my own life , and I'm really happy with that , that's all , but .... we're not enemies !!

I don't understand why some people don't understand it , sorry to ask ??

Why you have too , like protestants are not catholic , so .... !!

Each creature is a personal , unique someone , no matter what !!

Salut & Cheers from a NON BELIEVER:

-- Laurent LUG (.@...), June 01, 2004.


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